‘India sees France as a natural partner in its progress’: PM Modi to Macron

Paris: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said a roadmap is being drawn up with bold and ambitious targets to strengthen India-France strategic ties over the next 25 years, as he asserted that defense cooperation remains a strong pillar of the relationship. Is. PM Modi, who is here on a two-day official visit, was warmly received by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace, following which both the leaders made press statements.

Modi said at a joint press, “We are celebrating the 25th anniversary of our strategic partnership. On the strong foundation of the last 25 years, we are preparing a roadmap for the coming 25 years. We set bold and ambitious goals for this.” are doing.” Statement with President Macron.

He said that defense relations have always been the basic pillar of bilateral relations between the two countries. He said, “It is a symbol of mutual trust between the two countries.” He said, “France is an important partner in ‘Make in India’ and self-reliant India… Be it submarines or naval aircraft, we want to accomplish together. Not only ours but also the requirements of other friendly countries,” PM Modi said.

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Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict have affected the entire world, PM Modi said countries in the Global South have been particularly negatively impacted. ”It’s a topic of concern. It is necessary for countries to make united efforts to find solutions to such problems. We believe that all disputes can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. India is ready to contribute to lasting peace.” the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi said, “India and France have been together in the fight against terrorism. We believe that strong action is needed against cross-border terrorism.”

In his remarks, PM Modi also said that both the countries have agreed to launch India’s Unified Payments Interface in France. He also announced that India would open a new consulate in the port city of Marseille.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined French President Emmanuel Macron as the guest of honor along with a marching contingent of the Indian tri-services at the Bastille Day Parade during the National Day celebrations of France.

Rafale fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) also took part in the flypast on the occasion along with French jets. Prime Minister Modi tweeted along with pictures of the impressive march-past, “On this historic occasion of Bastille Day, attended the parade in Paris. I express my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and honour.”

“India, inspired by its age-old ethos, is committed to do everything possible to make our planet peaceful, prosperous and sustainable. 1.4 billion Indians will always be grateful to France for being a strong and reliable partner. This bond Go deeper!” PM Modi tweeted.

“A giant in world history, a decisive player in the future, a strategic partner, a friend. We are proud to welcome India as our guest of honor at the 14th of July parade,” Macron tweeted.

He wrote, “On this 14th July, India’s soldiers and Rafale aircraft are marching and flying with our soldiers.” “We honor the memory of those who fought alongside the French in World War I. We will never forget it,” the French president said in another tweet.

Marching to the tune of ‘Saare Jahan Se Accha’, a 241-member Indian Tri-Services contingent took part in the parade to mark the 25th anniversary of the Indo-French strategic partnership. A military band also took part in the parade. The Indian Army contingent was led by the Punjab Regiment along with the Rajputana Rifles Regiment.

Rafale jets of the Indian Air Force from 101 Squadron from Hashimara took part in the fly past during the parade. Prime Minister Modi saluted the Indian contingent while passing through the stage where Macron, he and other dignitaries were seated.

During the entire parade, Macron was seen explaining the finer points of the traditional parade to Modi. French National Day, or Bastille Day, holds a special place in the French consciousness because it commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789 during the French Revolution. The Bastille Day Parade is the highlight of the celebrations.